Custom Cabinets in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Surprise, AZ & Surrounding Areas

High-Gloss vs Matte Cabinet Finishes: Which One is Trending?

In 2025, custom cabinet finish trends are clearly leaning toward matte over high-gloss, as homeowners and designers alike embrace a softer, more natural aesthetic. Matte cabinet finishes offer a refined, modern look without the reflective sheen of high-gloss. This understated finish is especially appealing in today’s design climate, where earthy textures, organic tones, and minimalist styles are taking center stage. Sunset Tile & Bath provides custom cabinets in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Surprise, AZ, Peoria, AZ, Paradise Valley and surrounding areas.

1. One of the major benefits of matte custom cabinets is their practicality. They are much better at hiding fingerprints, smudges, and scratches, which makes them a smart choice for busy kitchens and homes with children or pets. The smooth, muted surface also creates a calming atmosphere, helping the kitchen feel like a more grounded and comfortable space. Additionally, matte finishes pair beautifully with a range of materials—wood, stone, and metal—adding to their versatility in both modern and transitional kitchen designs.
2. While high-gloss finishes are still in use, they are no longer the dominant trend. High-gloss cabinets have a sleek, ultra-modern look that can make smaller kitchens feel larger by reflecting light and creating a sense of openness. However, the same glossy surface also shows smudges, fingerprints, and dust more easily, demanding more frequent cleaning. These finishes also tend to feel colder or more clinical, which may clash with the current trend toward warmer, more natural kitchen environments.
3. Designers today often use high-gloss finishes more selectively—as an accent or in combination with matte or wood-textured surfaces—to add visual interest without overwhelming the space. This mixed-material approach allows for a more curated and layered look, balancing the clean brightness of gloss with the warmth and subtlety of matte.

In summary, matte custom cabinet finishes are leading the trend in 2025 due to their elegance, practicality, and alignment with current design values favoring comfort and authenticity. High-gloss finishes still have a place in modern kitchens but are now typically used to highlight specific areas rather than define the entire aesthetic. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your lifestyle, design goals, and how much maintenance you’re willing to take on. Please reach out with any questions you might have, and we will be happy to help.